Abstract:

This creative project outlines the process used in developing an action oriented and citizen based neighborhood plan for the Bloomingdale Neighborhood, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. As a member of the City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, I was the lead staff person in the development of this plan. The plan was designed to identify and resolve neighborhood issues with manageable goals and specific action steps. Though the planning department initiated the process and took a leadership role in the plan's development, the neighborhood association ultimately determined the plan's focus and direction. This allowed the association to take ownership of the process and ultimately the plan. The techniques and methods used in the process for developing the Bloomingdale Plan will be incorporated in future neighborhood planning efforts in Fort Wayne.